Selective Heat Sintering™ is a patented 3D printing technology that uses a thermal print head to melt thermoplastic powder to create 3D printed parts.

First, the user creates a 3D model using a 3D modeling program and saves it as an STL file. The STL file is then sent to the 3D printer's interfacing software that slices the model into sections and determines how the part will be printed. A layer of ABS or PLA powder is deposited onto the print head and the print head moves back and forth to apply heat to melt the powder that then hardens. Another layer of powder is added and heating it is repeated until the part is complete. The part is removed from the powder and cleaned. The excess powder can be reused for the next print.

Selective Heat Sintering™ is patented by BluePrinter. BluePrinter was founded in Denmark in 2009 as a solution for an affordable office 3D printer. BluePrinter's clientele focus is professional engineers and designers that work in small-to-medium sized businesses.